So hopeful. And now to NASCAR superstar Tony Stewart, back on the track since he struck and killed another driver three weeks ago. Fans welcomed him back, but the race did not go on without a hitch. Good morning, gio Benitez. Starting off strong, but then setback after setback. Only making it halfway through the race, ending in 41st place. So many wondering if a grieving Stewart could race at all. Tony Stewart! Reporter: Overnight, Tony Stewart returning to the racetrack to rousing applause and thunderous cheers from fans. Ending early at the Atlanta motor speedway Sunday night, hitting the wall not once, but twice. Driving the battered race car, number 14, to the garage. Not speaking with reporters. It's disappointing. First week back, hoping for bigger things. Reporter: The 43-year-old choosing to return to racing just three weeks after he struck and killed 20-year-old Kevin ward Jr. On a dirt track in upstate New York. This video of ward's final moments haunting many. The investigation still underway. Why not wait until the investigation is complete and then come back to the sport you love? Reporter: Emotionally speaking out for the first time on Friday. This has been one of the toughest tragedies I have had to deal with. Reading from a prepared statement and not taking questions from reporters. I want Kevin's father, Kevin Sr., and his mother, Pam, and his sisters, Christie, Kayla and catelyn, I'm thinking about them and praying for them. Reporter: He was practicing for the Atlanta race, placing in the top 20 in both practice sessions. But this morning as the cloud of information looms over, should Stewart be racing at all? It's a routine he's had since he was 8 years old. Exactly what he needed. Reporter: And police tell ABC news the investigation could last another two weeks. So far Stewart has not been charged with a crime. Still three weeks later, so many questions. Tough situation on all sides. Thank you. Now to ginger for the

This transcript has been automatically generated and may not be 100% accurate.

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